Adult Services
Adult Protective Services
Adult Protective Services (APS) are provided to assist individuals 18 years of age or older whose physical and/or mental impairments prevent them from meeting their basic needs for food, clothing, shelter or medical care, or to protect themselves from abuse, neglect or dangerous situations. One of the primary goals of Adult Protective Services is the provision of services that maximize an individual's independence, freedom and decision-making ability. The least restrictive interventions should begin with those interventions that are voluntary.
APS clients are often among the most debilitated and neglected members of the community: the frail elderly, the mentally ill, the developmentally disabled and/or the drug/alcohol dependent.
Eligibility
The individual is eighteen years of age or older with the following characteristics:
- A mental or physical impairment and,
- At risk of harm either by his/her own or others’ actions and,
- Has no one willing or able to assist responsibly
Rights of an Individual Referred for Adult Protective Services
Adults have the right to make their own decisions. They may choose to accept or refuse the services APS offers. In cases of extreme risk or diminished capacity to make decisions due to physical or mental disorders, APS may intervene against the person’s will to protect the individual.
Click on the links below for more information:
- New York State Office of Children and Family Services https://ocfs.ny.gov/main/psa/
- Alzheimer's Association https://www.alz.org/
Report Adult Abuse/Neglect
To report adult abuse or neglect occurring in Jefferson County call Jefferson County Department of Social Services at 315-785-3210. To report within New York State call 1-800-342-3009 (Press Option 7 )
If an adult is in danger and needs immediate assistance please call 911.
Contact us: JeffersonAPS@dfa.state.ny.us
